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Brewers Yeast

What is brewers yeast? Why
do we need it?

Brewers yeast (often called nutritional yeast) was
originally a byproduct produced by the brewing of beer. It
differs from live bakers yeast in that its live yeast
cells have been destroyed, leaving the nutrients behind.

Although
it is still used to brew certain beverages, brewers
yeast is now grown as a separate product and is prized for
its nutritional value.

Brewers yeast is looked upon favorably because it contains
high levels of many vital nutrients, including most of the
B vitamins, 16 amino acids and 14 different minerals. Brewers
yeast also has a high protein content (one tablespoon provides
4.6 grams of protein), making it a valuable source of protein
for vegetarians; high quantities of phosphorous; and high
levels of chromium, which can lower blood glucose levels and
low density lipoprotein (LDL) levels.

How much brewers yeast should
I take?

Brewers yeast can be taken in juice of water; four
tablespoons per day are recommended. Most health care providers
suggest that people taking brewers yeast start will
a small amount (one teaspoon), then progress to four tablespoons.

What are some good sources of brewers
yeast?

Brewers yeast can be found at many supermarkets and
health food stores. It is available in flake, powder, tablet
and liquid form.

What can happen if I don't get enough
brewers yeast?

There are no known studies documenting the lack of brewers
yeast in a normal diet and its impact on the human body.

What can happen if I take too much? Are there any side-effects I should be aware of?

Large doses (>four tablespoons per day) may cause gas
in some subjects. If you have frequent yeast infections, you
should avoid brewers yeast. People with osteoporosis
should avoid brewers yeast because of its high phosphorous
content. If you take a yeast supplement, you should also take
extra calcium.